Explore the world of eSIM-compatible phones on the market in 2024. Whether you’re an iPhone or Android user, we’ve compiled the latest list of devices that support eSIM technology for your convenience.
There are many eSIM-supported phones on the market for you to choose from in 2024.
With eSIM-compatible phones, users can switch carriers without needing a physical SIM card.
In this article, we’ve compiled lists showcasing mobile devices on the market that are eSIM compatible. We’ll feature iPhone and Android devices as well as other manufacturers. We’ll also nod to expected future releases.
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Please note that your device must be unlocked to use eSIM. An “unlocked” phone is not restricted to one specific carrier, meaning it can be used with any carrier’s SIM card or eSIM. Contact your carrier to confirm if your device can be unlocked for eSIM functionality.
Be aware that within the same model, some devices may support eSIM while others do not. Verify your device’s eSIM compatibility before making a purchase. You have a couple of options for how you can verify:
Please also note that there are some exceptions depending on where you are in the world.
For example, iPhones from mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao don’t have eSIM functionality (except for (except for the iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE 2020, and iPhone XS)
These discrepancies crop up across all of the manufacturers listed. For instance, Samsung phones made in South Korea differ in compatibility from Samsung phones made elsewhere.
We’ll list what is generally true across most markets. In the process, we’ll highlight a few instances we think are particularly relevant. But we recommend double-checking for models in your country.
Let’s dive in.
Apple has been a pioneer in eSIM technology, with many of its recent models supporting this feature.
Below is a list of iPhones that support eSIM as of August 2024:
We can reasonably expect that all future iPhones will include eSIM functionality. That includes the upcoming iPhone 16 in its various iterations, set to be released later this year, sometime in the fall.
Note that, for US-based buyers, it might be important to note the latest models aren’t compatible with physical SIM cards. (iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max)
This is an indication of the direction Apple is headed in its preference for eSIM cards. But what about eSIM Android phones?
Android manufacturers like Samsung, Google, Sony, and Huawei have also embraced eSIM technology. Below are some of the popular Android brands that offer eSIM phones.
Samsung’s market share surpassed Apple in the first quarter of 2024 according to ZDNET. Samsung has embraced eSIM technology across many of its flagship models, providing users with enhanced connectivity and flexibility
Xiaomi is known for offering feature-rich devices at competitive prices (especially when compared to the major players above, like Apple and Samsung).
The company has integrated eSIM technology in several of its premium models.
Google’s Pixel phones are renowned for their clean Android experience and advanced camera capabilities. The Pixel lineup has consistently supported eSIM:
Sony has incorporated eSIM technology in its Xperia series, enhancing the connectivity options for its users.
OnePlus, like Xiaomi, is celebrated for delivering flagship-level performance at competitive prices. The brand has integrated eSIM support in its recent models:
Huawei has included eSIM technology in only its higher-end models. Unlike Apple and its longer adoption of eSIM, the P40 and the P40 Pro and the first two eSIM-compatible phones from the Chinese manufacturer.
Important to note: The Huawei P40 Pro+ and P50 Pro are not compatible with eSIM.
Motorola has adopted eSIM technology in select models:
Honor, a sub-brand of Huawei, focuses on delivering high-performance smartphones with cutting-edge features. Some of its premium models now support eSIM technology:
Oppo has gained a strong reputation for its innovative designs and advanced camera technologies comparable to Google’s Pixel range. The company features eSIM support in several of its flagship models:
Sharp offers a range of smartphones with distinctive features. Some of Sharp’s models now support eSIM technology:
Several other manufacturers also offer eSIM-compatible phones. Always check with the specific model and your carrier for eSIM support. Here’s a selection:
Besides phones, several other devices support eSIM technology, including smartwatches and tablets.
Here’s a selection of eSIM-compatible devices:
Smartwatches
Tablets
eSIM-compatible devices often allow you to use more than one eSIM. This means you could potentially have a device with one physical SIM and multiple eSIMs. The number of eSIMs a phone can support varies by manufacturer and model.
This feature is particularly useful for individuals who need to manage personal and work numbers on the same device.
It’s relatively easy to switch your active eSIM within your device settings.
Here are some examples of devices that have dual eSIM functionality:
No, you can’t retrofit a non-compatible device and convert it into an eSIM-compatible device. The device must be built with eSIM capability from the manufacturer. There is no way of getting around this as a customer.
There are options for budget-friendly eSIM-compatible phones. These options don’t compromise on essential features. They provide the convenience of eSIM technology at a more affordable price point, making them accessible to a wider range of users. Here are a few notable models for you to check out:
– Google Pixel 3a, 3a XL
– iPhone SE (2nd generation)
– Motorola Razr 2019
No, not all iPhones support eSIM. Only models from the iPhone XS and newer support eSIM technology.
Check our lists above to see if your device model is listed as supporting eSIM. You can also check the user manual that came with the device or search in the settings menu. Finally, if you’re really unsure, contact your phone manufacturer for more information if you’re struggling to find the answer.
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